Alapa‘i Kahuena was from Wai‘anae. She was trained by her grandmother in the properties and uses of medicinal plants. She also trained with po‘okela lā‘au lapa‘au Papa Henry Auwae, matriculating with the O‘ahu class in 1998. Throughout her healing career, she was called upon by old and young to heal a cough, mend a sprain, or address some ailment, rarely turning anyone down.

In addition to sharing her healing gifts with those in need, Kahuena was willing to raise the community’s awareness about lā‘au lapa‘au by participating in public forums and workshops. She made deliberate efforts to pass on her knowledge by taking on haumana, students, who perpetuate her legacy.

Kahuena was a member of Nā Leihulu o Ke Ola Mamo, the kupuna council of healers affiliated with the Native Hawaiian Health Care System on O‘ahu. In 2011, she was recognized with a Ka‘ōnohi Award, given to individuals who have made significant contributions to improving the health and wellness of Hawaiians.

POL has cherished memories of Kupuna Alapa‘i. Her services are at 11 AM on Friday, January 11 at the Makakilo 1st Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We send our aloha to her family and friends.